Shoryu Ramen brings cult Japanese Jiro Ramen to the UK for the first time

26th September 2025

Shoryu Ramen is introducing Jiro Ramen to the UK for the first time this autumn. The special dish will be available from 7th October to 9th November at six of the chain’s London branches – Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, Regent Street, Soho, Shoreditch and Westfield Stratford City – as well as in Oxford and Manchester. The launch aims to bring a cult Japanese phenomenon, known for its bold and unconventional style, to a wider UK audience.

Shoryu Ramen, founded in 2012 by Tak Tokumine (who is also the founder of Japan Centre in London) has built a reputation on serving Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen and other regional Japanese offerings. The decision to add Jiro Ramen to the menu reflects an effort to diversify offerings and introduce lesser-known Japanese food culture to the UK. Originally created in Tokyo in the 1960s, this version has drawn both dedicated fans, who call it “the ultimate ramen bowl”, and sceptics, who have described it as “too much of everything”. With the UK debut, Shoryu hopes to gauge how British diners respond to the dish’s distinctive style and flavour. It is markedly different from more traditional styles, which are often associated with refined presentation and subtle flavour profiles. In contrast, Jiro is known for its large portions, rich broth, thick noodles and generous toppings.

Kanji Furukawa, Shoryu’s executive chef, described the soup as a personal favourite. “Jiro ramen is a guilty pleasure for me, a cult classic for Japanese. It’s so big, very messy and makes your head sweat. We use 4-hour kakuni pork belly, thick futomen noodles, a mountain of bean sprouts, extra seabura back fat and minced garlic (my number one favourite). I hope the UK will love it as much as I do, and I’m sure our Japanese customers will be excited to see Jiro on the menu.”

Shoryu’s managing director Hannah Tokumine added, “At Shoryu, we’re always trying to keep our dishes as authentic as possible, and we aim to tell stories with our food that reflect Japanese culture. Jiro Ramen is one of those. It’s got so much personality, and there’s nothing else like it. I encourage everyone to research it online, read up about its history and learn how it has gained its controversial reputation – then try it for themselves. Bringing it to the UK feels really special, and we’re proud of how we’ve captured the energy of this cult-favourite dish.”

Food Desk

Jiro Ramen Is available at Shoryu Ramen’s Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, Regent Street, Soho, Shoreditch and Westfield Stratford City branches in London, and at branches in Oxford and Manchester, from 7th October until 9th November 2025. For further information or to book a table, visit the restaurant group’s website here.